Parmesan Panko Chicken Poppers: Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistibly Delicious!
These Parmesan Panko Chicken Poppers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Bite-sized pieces of juicy chicken coated in a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful panko breading, they are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. This recipe is easy to follow and yields incredibly delicious results every time. Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these irresistible poppers!
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Poppers
* **Crispy Texture:** The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese creates an incredibly crunchy coating that will leave you wanting more.
* **Flavorful:** The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory, and umami-rich flavor that perfectly complements the juicy chicken.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
* **Versatile:** Serve these poppers as an appetizer, snack, side dish, or even as part of a main course. They are also great for dipping in your favorite sauces.
* **Kid-Friendly:** These poppers are a guaranteed hit with kids (and adults!) of all ages.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Chicken:** 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces.
* **Panko Breadcrumbs:** 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are coarser and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in a crispier coating.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
* **Eggs:** 2 large eggs, lightly beaten.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1/2 cup all-purpose flour.
* **Garlic Powder:** 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
* **Onion Powder:** 1 teaspoon onion powder.
* **Dried Italian Herbs:** 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and thyme).
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
* **Olive Oil (or cooking spray):** For baking or air frying.
Equipment You’ll Need
* 3 shallow dishes (for the flour, egg, and panko mixtures)
* Baking sheet or air fryer basket
* Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
* Mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the most amazing Parmesan Panko Chicken Poppers:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Ensure the pieces are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
2. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
1. In the first shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. In the second shallow dish, whisk the eggs lightly.
3. In the third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken Poppers
1. Take a piece of chicken and dredge it in the flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, making sure it is completely covered.
3. Finally, dredge the egg-coated chicken in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere to all sides.
4. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Poppers
**Option 1: Baking**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup).
3. Arrange the breaded chicken poppers on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
4. Drizzle lightly with olive oil or spray with cooking spray.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Flip the poppers halfway through for even browning.
**Option 2: Air Frying**
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the breaded chicken poppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.
3. Spray the poppers lightly with cooking spray.
4. Air fry for 8-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
1. Remove the cooked chicken poppers from the oven or air fryer and let them cool slightly.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Poppers
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and high-quality panko breadcrumbs will make a noticeable difference in the flavor and texture of your chicken poppers.
* **Don’t Overcrowd:** Whether you are baking or air frying, avoid overcrowding the pan or basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy coating.
* **Pat the Chicken Dry:** Patting the chicken dry before breading helps the flour and egg adhere better, resulting in a more secure and crispy coating.
* **Season Generously:** Don’t be afraid to season the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures generously. This is where the flavor comes from!
* **Monitor the Cooking Time:** Cooking times may vary depending on your oven or air fryer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* **Let Rest Briefly:** Allow the chicken poppers to rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Variations and Substitutions
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
* **Add Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary, in the breadcrumb mixture.
* **Different Dipping Sauces:** Try different dipping sauces to customize the flavor of your chicken poppers. Some popular options include sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, or a creamy garlic aioli.
* **Make it Keto-Friendly:** Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour and crushed pork rinds for panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe keto-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
These Parmesan Panko Chicken Poppers are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
* **Appetizer:** Serve them as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.
* **Snack:** Enjoy them as a satisfying snack any time of day.
* **Side Dish:** Serve them as a side dish with a salad or vegetables.
* **Main Course:** Make them a part of your main course by serving them with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
* **Lunchbox Treat:** Pack them in your lunchbox for a delicious and easy-to-eat meal.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
* **Marinara Sauce:** A classic choice that complements the cheesy flavor of the poppers.
* **Honey Mustard:** A sweet and tangy sauce that adds a delightful contrast.
* **Ranch Dressing:** A creamy and herby sauce that is always a crowd-pleaser.
* **BBQ Sauce:** A smoky and sweet sauce that adds a bold flavor.
* **Sweet Chili Sauce:** A sweet and spicy sauce that adds a delicious kick.
* **Sriracha Mayo:** A creamy and spicy sauce that is perfect for those who like a little heat.
* **Creamy Garlic Aioli:** A rich and flavorful sauce that is made with garlic, mayonnaise, and olive oil.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
**Storage:**
* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover chicken poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freeze:** For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken poppers. Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2-3 months.
**Reheating:**
* **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
* **Air Fryer:** Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken poppers in the air fryer basket and air fry for 5-8 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
* **Microwave:** While not recommended for achieving the best crispiness, you can reheat the chicken poppers in the microwave for a quick and easy option. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Note that the breading may become soggy.
Parmesan Panko Chicken Poppers Recipe
This recipe provides a detailed guide to making the most delicious Parmesan Panko Chicken Poppers. Follow these instructions carefully for best results.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15-20 minutes (baking) or 8-12 minutes (air frying)
**Yields:** Approximately 30-40 poppers
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
* 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
* Olive oil (or cooking spray)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko mixture. Press gently to adhere.
5. **Baking:** Arrange breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (optional). Drizzle lightly with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. **Air Frying:** Place breaded chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 8-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Let cool slightly and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious Parmesan Panko Chicken Poppers! They’re sure to be a hit with everyone.